Well, what we’re seeing in the water industry, is a focus on going to more recycle reuse of wastewater. With limited fresh water supplies globally and tightening fresh water supplies, we’re seeing people wanting to reuse the water. Instead of just one time use, they want to recycle it back into their plants.
What is water recycling?
Recycle: verb
a. To recover useful materials from garbage or waste
b. To extract and reuse.
Why recycle water?
Recycled water can satisfy most water demands, as long as it is adequately treated to ensure water quality appropriate for the use.
How is recycled/reclaimed water different from raw water?
Through the natural water cycle, the earth has recycled and reused water for millions of years. Water utilities use technology to speed up these natural processes.
The water conservation hierarchy
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Inherent risk for alternative water sources
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• rainwater
• greywater
• treated sewage
• industrial water
• managed aquifer recharge (MAR)
• framework for alternative urban water supplies.
Rainwater
Using rainwater is an easy and effective way to conserve our water supplies and reduce the amount of mains water you use. Some simple guides have been produced on how to collect and safely manage rainwater.
Greywater
Greywater (all non-toilet household wastewater) can be a good water resource during times of drought and water restrictions, but its reuse can carry health and environmental risks.is reusable wastewater from residential, commercial and industrial bathroom sinks, bath tub shower drains, and clothes washing equipment drains. Gray water is reused onsite, typically for landscape irrigation.
Treated sewage
Recycling wastewater can ease the pressure on our water resources and avoid the need to discharge wastewater to the environment. Recycling wastewater can provide water that, with some management controls, is suitable for a wide range of uses including irrigation and toilet flushing.
